Lorcaserin offers a 50 percent chance of losing weight

The new diet drug Lorcaserin is currently being reviewed by the FDA. (Photo: CC by alancleaver_2000/Flickr)

Developed by Arena Pharmaceuticals, the new diet drug Lorcaserin has been submitted to the FDA for approval. A two-year study of the drug has recently been completed, and researchers say the weight loss drug is both safe and effective. The long-term safety of the drug has not yet been established, but within the race for the newest weight-loss drug, Lorcaserin may be the next one to make millions on the market, safe or not.

The effects of Lorcaserin

Hunger impulses come from serotonin, which is blocked by Lorcaserin. The drug mimics the same hormone in the brain the “fen” half of fen-phen targeted. Blocking this hormone blocks hunger impulses. These same chemical interactions are used to create anti-depressants and anti-convulsants.

Lorcaserin’s weight loss

Just recently released, the latest study on the safety and effectiveness on Lorcaserin seems promising. The study shows that about half of the people taking Lorcaserin lost 5 percent or more of their body weight. Twenty percent of participants lost a full 10 percent or more of their body weight using the drug.

The safety profile of Lorcaserin

Lorcaserin is being very carefully watched for safety because it works in ways comparable to fen-phen. In 1997, fen-phen was taken off the market because it considerably weakened heart valves. In studies, Lorcaserin hasn’t been shown to weaken heart valves the exact same way. Lorcaserin targets hormones that regulate not only appetite, but endocrine system secretions and mood.

Will Lorcaserin be approved?

The FDA has received a New Drug Application for Lorcaserin. The FDA will complete its review of Lorcaserin by Oct. 22, 2010. The FDA might approve the drug for sale, request additional studies or simply deny certificiation. The documents from Arena estimate that Lorcaserin will sell more than $3 billion worth of products by 2015.

Though you will find dozens of weight loss drugs on the market and in development, the reality is that almost none of these drugs are shown to be more effective than watching your diet and exercising regularly.